Position Description:

The Spirit Squad Coordinator and Head Cheer and Dance Coach will lead Valparaiso University cheer, dance, and mascot programs while supporting the university’s mission and values through a dynamic, student-centered approach. This position is split evenly between two core areas:

1. Spirit Squad Leadership (50%) – Oversee and elevate all aspects of the cheer, dance, and mascot programs, including recruiting, retention, instruction, programming, scheduling, and performance management.
2. Additional Strategic Responsibilities (50%) – Based on qualifications, the successful candidate will assume key operational duties in one or more of the following areas: student recruitment and enrollment, student success and mentorship, club sport administration, event operations, and/or athletic facility support.

This role requires a proactive and adaptable individual who thrives in collaborative environments and is passionate about enhancing the student experience and cultivating school spirit both on and off campus.

Major Responsibilities:

• Spirit Squad Leadership – 50%:
  • Direct and manage the university cheer, dance, and mascot programs.
  • Recruit and retain high-caliber student participants.
  • Organize practices, performances, and travel schedules.
  • Plan and execute summer spirit camps in partnership with campus departments.
  • Serve as a visible ambassador for spirit squads at athletic, campus, and community events.
  • Ensure program compliance with university and safety regulations.
  • Foster a positive, inclusive, and disciplined team culture.
  • Support student-athletes through mentorship and leadership development.
• Additional Strategic Duties – 50% (Assigned based on qualifications and institutional need in one or more of the following areas): 
  • Student Recruitment: Serve as admissions counselor, assist with admissions events, tours, and outreach efforts.
  • Student Success: Coordinate programming or serve in a role focused on academic support and/or personal development.
  • Club Sports Operations: Support the administration, scheduling, and oversight of elite club sport programs. 
  • Event Management: Assist with the planning and execution of athletic and university events.
  • Facilities Maintenance Camp; Support: Contribute to operations within athletic facilities.

Required Knowledge and Skills:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• Collegiate cheer and dance participation and coaching experience.
• Excelled communication, leadership and organizational skills with the ability to handle administrative tasks.
• Ability to plan and lead practices, occasional travel and performances.
• Ability to take initiative, work collaboratively in a fast-paced team environment, and manage multiple priorities.
• Commitment to fostering a positive and supportive learning environment, student development and the university mission.
• Ability to work extended days, weekends and holidays. Limited travel required.

Other Qualifications:

• Experience working in the college recruitment process.
• Experience as a spirit coordinator and head coach at the collegiate level
  
  
  

All offers of employment with Valparaiso University are contingent upon the clear results of a thorough background check. Background checks may include criminal history, motor vehicle reports, prior employment verification, and personal/professional references. If applicable to the position, they will also include credit history. Background checks will be conducted on all final candidates for employment.

To be considered for this position, you must upload:

Cover letter

Resume

List of 3 professional references

Answer all application questions

Please address the cover letter to:

Erica Jessen

Asst Ath Dir for Marketing & Ticket Operations

Valparaiso University